Drafters turn designs for
buildings, bridges, and gadgets
into fully realized drawings
that can be manufactured and built.
Drafters use computer-aided design software to
convert the sketches and specifications made by
architects and engineers into technical drawings.
They typically specialize in one area:
Architectural drafters draw
architectural and structural features of
buildings for construction projects.
These workers may specialize in a
type of building, or in a particular
type of material, such as steel or
reinforced concrete.
Civil drafters prepare topographical maps
used in construction and
civil engineering projects,
such as highways, bridges, and
flood-control projects.
Electrical drafters create wiring diagrams
that other workers use to install and repair
electrical equipment and wiring in power plants,
electrical distribution systems,
and residential and commercial buildings.
Electronics drafters produce wiring diagrams,
assembly diagrams for circuit boards,
and layout drawings used in manufacturing
and to install and repair electronic devices.
Mechanical drafters prepare detailed layouts
for a wide variety of machinery and
mechanical tools and devices.
These layouts indicate requirements
needed for assembly.
Although drafters spend much of their time
working on computers in an office,
some visit jobsites to collaborate with
architects and engineers.
Most drafters work full time.
Drafters generally need to complete a
certificate or associate’s degree at a
technical institute or community college.